Most women share a love-hate relationship with bras. No matter how much you hate their pokes and stabs, you just can’t do without their lift and support. The good part is that, once you know what style, size, and type complement your body, it can significantly transform your life. The right bra types can magically enhance the appearance of your outfit whereas the wrong one can spoil your entire look. That’s why women should be well versed with the different types of bra styles available in the market and the outfits they go with.
Coming to the parameters of bras can be divided into 4 types based on construction – padded, non-padded, wired, and non-wired. Based on coverage, bras are of two types – those with demi cups and those offering full coverage. Talking about the neckline shape, bras can be categorized into a sweetheart neckline, plunge, or balconette style.
Based on the above parameters, let us take a look at the best bra types available at Clovia. Here, we have enlisted 24 types of bras for women that you can find at Clovia. We have also mentioned some styling tips for each bra for the best pairing.
#1 Padded Bras
A padded bra is crafted with padded cups or has pockets to insert pads (also called cookies). This style works best when your main concern is to hide visible nipples. It also adds volume to your breasts and gives them a rounder and fuller shape. Padded bras are available in both underwired & non-wired styles. Underwired padded bras give you a gentle lift while non-padded ones are great for everyday wear.
| Style Guide: Padded Bra | |
| Breast Type | All |
| Occasion | Everyday |
| Outfit | All |
#2 T-shirt Bra
A T-shirt bra is quite similar to a padded bra. It has smooth and seamless cups that don’t leave any impression when worn under body-hugging outfits. This style works best with fitted outfits for a clean & smooth silhouette.
| Style Guide: T-shirt Bra | |
| Breast Type | All |
| Occasion | Everyday |
| Outfit | T-Shirts, Body Hugging Dresses |
#3 Push-Up Bra
A push-up bra lifts your breasts and pushes them closer while giving you a very prominent cleavage. Push-up bras usually have underwired cups for a gentle lift. They have angular padding that drastically changes the shape and look of your breasts. Starting from level 1 push-up, which is a gentle push to level 3, which is a heavy lift, you can pick the amount of drama you need!
| Style Guide: Push-Up Bra | |
| Breast Type | Mostly for Small, Saggy |
| Occasion | Parties |
| Outfit | Low cut blouses, Plunge Neck Outfits |
| Level 1 | For small breasts |
| Level 2 | For semi-full or small breasts |
| Level 3 | For full or semi-full breasts |
#4 Underwired Bras
As the name suggests, these bras have wired cups, although the cups may or may not be padded. The underwires provide a gentle lift to breasts making them look perkier. This style works best for women who feel they have saggy breasts and need that extra lift.
| Style Guide: Underwired Bra | |
| Breast Type | Large |
| Occasion | All |
| Outfit | All |
#5 Convertible/ Multiway Bra
This style is the master of all bras. With detachable straps, it allows multiway styling including one strap, two straps, cross-shoulder, halter, criss-cross and even strapless. This one bra solves the purpose of many bras combined.
| Style Guide: Convertible/ Multiway Bra | |
| Breast Type | All |
| Occasion | Every day, Gym |
| Outfit | Tank Tops, Racerback Dresses |
#6 Bralette
Bralette is a bra style that lies somewhere between a bra and a crop top. These easy-to-wear bras are usually non-padded non-wired and have a slip-on style. With less support and construction, this style focuses more on style and comfort factor. They can be styled as fashionable outwear too!
| Style Guide: Bralette | |
| Breast Type | Small, Medium |
| Occasion | Parties |
| Outfit | Transparent, Backless outfits or like crop tops |
#7 Strapless Bras
A strapless bra is pretty much self-explanatory. This style can be worn without the straps. Its main support is offered by underwired cups and an inner silicon lining along the edges that prevent the bra from slipping down. Such styles sometimes have side boning for extra support. They work best under a tube, strapless or off-shoulder outfit.
| Style Guide: Strapless Bra | |
| Breast Type | Small |
| Occasion | Casual outing, Parties |
| Outfit | Off shoulder Tops, Tube Tops, Racerback Dresses |
#8 Balconette Bra
A balconette bra can be identified by its wide set straps. The name has been derived from the word ‘balcony’ which pretty much resembles the neckline that is created by wide-set straps. This bra style works best for broad necklines.
| Style Guide: Balconette Bra | |
| Breast Type | Small, Medium |
| Occasion | Weddings, Parties |
| Outfit | Wide Neck Tops, Sarees, Salwar Suits |
#9 Front Open Bra
Front open bras feature a clasp or a hook at the centre gore. This can be considered the most convenient bra to wear. This style is popular amongst women who find it difficult or annoying to hook the bra at the back.
| Style Guide: Front Open Bra | |
| Breast Type | Heavy breasted women |
| Solution | Easy-to-tie front enclosures |
#10 Halter Bra
Halter bras have a single strap that either goes around the neck or straps that can be tied at the back of the neck. This style works best under halter dresses and tank tops. Most of the convertible bras give you an option of converting them into a halter style too.
| Style Guide: Halter Bra | |
| Breast Type | All |
| Occasion | Parties, Day Out |
| Outfit | Tube Tops, Strapless Dresses, Tank Tops, Racerback Dresses, Halter Neck Dresses |
#11 Bandeau Bra
Bandeau bras are also called tube bras. These are pretty basic in structure with no wiring, no padding and no straps. But quite a few tube bras come with inbuilt pockets to insert pads. This bra style works best under tube tops or racerback tops. A great option for times when you don’t want your straps to be visible.
| Style Guide: Bandeau Bra | |
| Breast Type | Small |
| Occasion | Parties |
| Outfit | Off-Shoulder Tops, Tube Tops, Deep Neck Dresses, Sheer Tops |
#12 Nursing Bra
Nursing bras are a blessing for new mothers. They feature a flap at the cups for easy feeding access. These flaps are usually secured with a clasp that can be unhooked by a single handle making it easy to feed the baby. These are crafted with breathable cotton fabric and are non-padded and non-wired to keep the mother at utmost ease during the time of changing breast shape and size. These are also called Maternity Bras.
| Style Guide: Nursing Bra | |
| Ideal time | Pregnancy, Post pregnancy |
| Solution | Convenient feeding access |
#13 Racerback Bra
Racerback bras are the ones that have a tank top-like back. These work best under outfits that have a similar back style. It is a great option for women who often complain about bra straps slipping down the shoulders. Many women claim that these bras are very comfortable and feel light on the back.
| Style Guide: Racerback Bra | |
| Occasion | Workout, Everyday |
| Outfit | Tank Tops, Racerback Dresses |
#14 Plunge Bra
Plunge bras have demi-coverage cups that cover one-third of the breasts and have a deep neckline all the way to the centre gore. They work best under outfits that have a low neckline and ensure no embarrassing bra peeks.
| Style Guide: Plunge Bra | |
| Breast Type | Small, Medium |
| Occasion | Weddings, Parties |
| Outfit | V-Neckline Dresses |
#15 Cage Bra
A cage bra is a very sexy style that features multiple straps on the front or back. This style is such that no woman can resist showing off. Cage bras can be styled with trendy & fashionable outfits or can be just worn alone with a jacket. In other words, this bra serves both as innerwear and outerwear.
| Style Guide: Cage Bra | |
| Breast Type | All |
| Occasion | Honeymoon, Parties |
| Outfit | Sheer Tops, Scoop Back Dresses |
#16 Sports Bras
Sports bras are a must-have for any physical exercise. These bras support the breasts and minimise bounce. Depending on the nature of the activity, one can pick from a range of low-impact, medium-impact, and high-impact bras.
| Style Guide: Sports Bra | |
| Low Impact Workout | Walking, Yoga, Pilates, Strength Training |
| Medium Impact Workout | Dance, Ski, Zumba, Cycling |
| Heavy Impact Workout | Gym, Running, Aerobics, Hiking |
#17 Stick On Bra
Stick-on bras have no back straps or shoulder straps. They have an adhesive on the inner side of the cups that stick to the body and stays put. These bras work best under backless and strapless outfits. However, they may not work the best with heavy-breasted women.
| Style Guide: Stick On Bra | |
| Breast Type | Small |
| Occasion | Parties |
| Solution | Avoid bra strap visibility |
| Outfit | Backless Dresses, Off Shoulder Tops, Tube Tops, Racerback Dresses, Sheer Back Dresses |
Explore Stick On Bras
#18 Transparent Bra
This bra features transparent back straps and shoulder straps. These straps go invisible under backless and strapless clothes and give a clean and smooth look.
| Style Guide: Transparent Bra | |
| Breast Type | Large |
| Occasion | Wedding, Parties |
| Outfit | Backless Dresses, Tube Tops |
#19 Bridal Bras
Bridal bras are the fanciest bra type of all. Premium fabrics like lace and satin add to the bridal charm. The designs are super-sexy and functional to make a perfect addition to your bridal trousseau.
| Style Guide: Bridal Bra | |
| Breast Type | All |
| Occasion | Wedding, Honeymoon |
#20 Beginner’s Bra
Quite similar to a bandeau bra, this bra has no hooks, pads, or wiring. Beginner’s bras have a slip-on style to make it a happy ‘first bra’ experience for young girls.
| Style Guide: Beginner’s Bra | |
| Ideal for | Teenagers |
| Solution | Provides support to growing girls |
| Outfit | School Uniform, T-Shirt, Dresses |
#21 Full Figure Bras
Full-figure bras as the name suggests, have full-coverage cups and broader side coverage. Such styles work best with women who have bigger & fuller breasts. These bras prevent spillage and give a much more flattering figure.
| Style Guide: Full Figure Bra | |
| Breast Type | Large |
| Occasion | Every day as per convenience |
| Outfit | Dresses, Tops, T-Shirts |
#22 Lace Bra
This is probably the sexiest bra style available in the market. It makes the perfect pick for a honeymoon or those special nights. Crafted with exquisite lace fabric, this bra lets you channel your inner diva in full swing. It enhances your appearance graciously to sweep your man off his feet by surprise.
| Style Guide: Lace Bra | |
| Breast Type | All |
| Occasion | Honeymoon, Bridal |
| Outfit | Babydolls, Nighties |
#23 Non-Padded Bras
A non-padded bra is best suited for women with larger breast sizes who don’t want any additional volume with the padding. The bulk-free cups enhance the natural shape of your breasts, without making them look out of shape. And since they’re double-layered, they don’t result in any nipple show either. They provide you with just the right amount of comfort, so you can feel free all day long. They’re so light that you’ll not even feel like you’re wearing a bra. This is why many people consider them a great home option to simply relax and lounge around.
| Style Guide: Non-Padded Bra | |
| Breast Type | Large |
| Occasion | Everyday |
| Outfit | All |
#24 Demi Bras
As the name states, ‘demi’ means half, so the demi bra means half bra. The cups are half/ smaller in size in comparison to a full-cup bra. The bra covers much less area of breasts while ensuring the nipples are fully concealed. Because of its unique design and shape, it works great under low-cut outfits. However, since the cups aren’t full, they don’t provide ample support like a full-coverage bra does. It is mostly ideal for smaller breast sizes.
| Style Guide: Demi Coverage Bra | |
| Breast Type | Small |
| Occasion | All |
| Outfit | Low neck |
#25 Seamless bra
Body-hugging tops can be tricky because usually, the bra shows underneath. Well, thankfully, a seamless bra is designed to help you with just that. It is ultra smooth and is specifically crafted to provide you with a seamless silhouette underneath your clothes, even under the tightest ones. The cups are beautifully moulded to enhance your curves while giving them a fit and firm look.
| Style Guide: Seamless Bra | |
| Breast Type | All |
| Occasion | Office, Parties |
| Outfit | Body-hugging |
#26 Wireless bras
As obvious from the name, these bras are devoid of straps. So, if you’ve always been irritated by the poking of underwires, this one’s for you. This bra is utterly comfortable and sits perfectly under your busts. And if you think they’re not supportive, you’re highly mistaken. These bras have sturdy underbands to provide your breasts with the necessary support and lift, especially for the ones with smaller to mid-sized breasts.
| Style Guide: Wireless Bra | |
| Breast Type | Mostly small, mid-sized |
| Occasion | Everyday |
| Outfit | All |
Now that you know about all the popular bra styles available in the market, you are ready to get set shop! But remember that picking the right bra size is as important as picking the right bra type. You can use the Bra Size Calculator to find your size in quick and easy steps.
For any type of bust, we have got something special.
There you have it – your guide to types of bras. It is a lot of information to take in, so we completely get it if you are not sure where to start when it comes to looking for the right type of bras for your wardrobe.
So, if you have got plans that require a wardrobe change, you cannot go wrong with these types of bras. They come in a wide range of different sizes, colours, shapes, fabrics, and more. You can find the right type of bra and wear it with anything, depending on the style you choose.
Here’s a video on “Bra Types” that will help you understand it better!
Expert’s Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why is it important to have a properly fitting bra?
A1.Wearing an ill-fitted bra can create room for numerous health problems. It can make you prone to headaches, neck pain, poor posture, skin irritation, and saggy breasts in the long run. Additionally, it can downgrade your overall appearance. It can make your breasts look out of place and bulky. On the other hand, the right size bra can keep you healthier and enhance the look of your bust.
Q2. How do I know when my bra does not fit properly?
A2. Here are some signs that will help you identify the same:
1. Riding back band
2. Spilling breasts
3. Digging straps
4. Slipping straps
5. Gaping in cups
Q3. I have very small breasts. Do I need to wear a bra?
A3. Yes, absolutely. No matter how small your bust size is, it is still mandatory for you to wear a bra to get the required support. Going braless might cause jiggling of breasts that can be super uncomfortable. Rest, padding or push-ups are your choices.
Q4. Which type of bra is the best?
A4. There is no absolute best when it comes to bras. Each bra serves a different purpose, so you need to pick one depending on the purpose. For instance, you can’t wear your regular bra to the gym. Similarly, wearing a lace bra underneath a body-hugging outfit would be a fashion faux pas.
Q5. What type of bra is ideal for daily use?
A5. A simple T-shirt bra is an excellent choice for daily use. It comes with soft fabric and the full-coverage cups ensure no spillage. It’s completely non-wired and non-padded which makes it ideal for everyday use.
Q6. What type of bra is best for beginners?
A6. A cotton, padded, non-wired teen bra is best for beginners. This bra offers an experience of great comfort and turns the first bra experience of teenage girls into a comfortable and easy one. It has non-wired cups which makes it even more comfortable and the full coverage cups prevent any top and side spillage. A comfortable snug fit is ensured by its adjustable straps and double hook-and-eye closure.
Q7. I have bigger breasts. Which kind of bra is best for me?
A7. Here are some bras that are best suitable for women with bigger breasts:
1. Full coverage
2. Sports bras
3. Underwired
4. T-shirt
5. Push-up
Rachika Singh
Complete Bra Style Guide
Ultimate Guide to Buying, Wearing & Caring for Bras
